A healthcare administration bachelor's degree, whether online or hybrid, prepares students for roles in the front office of hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, or similar facilities. Healthcare administrators plan, manage, and coordinate staff, budgets, insurance, policies, and health records while ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and technological standards. They play a key role in ensuring quality patient care. While online programs cover necessary coursework, some may require in-person attendance, making hybrid options more common than fully online programs.

A few decades ago, online bachelor's degrees in healthcare administration didn't exist. Back then, business school graduates became healthcare administrators. Today, with healthcare laws, electronic billing, and patient care information evolving, students can now pursue online healthcare administration programs that cover both business fundamentals—like accounting, economics, and business writing—and healthcare-specific topics such as organization, finance, management, administration, and legal issues. With the rise of online education in the past 20 years, there are now many more options for students seeking flexible learning opportunities.

Bachelor’s candidates in healthcare administration must complete at least one internship during their program, which is often credited by the university. Students are typically responsible for securing the internship themselves, and online learners must find a local facility to gain experience while completing their courses.

Healthcare administration degree candidates are often required to choose a concentration, such as public health, family care, emergency management, health informatics, or long-term care.

PROS

    According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is expected to be a 20% increase in demand for healthcare administrators through 2024. This is a demand that is far greater than most professions. Because of this, most people will be able to land entry-level employment in the field with just a bachelor's in healthcare administration and an internship.

    Also, with an online bachelor's in healthcare and an internship, students can earn one of a few certifications in the field, which can help their employment prospects. A bachelor of science in health information management or bachelor of science in health care administration programs is an entry level for professionals in the field. Certifications are also often available through online learning.

CONS

    Some healthcare facilities require candidates to hold a graduate degree in health administration, such as a Master’s in Public Health, Public Administration, or Healthcare Administration. There are also specialized master’s degrees, like in Long-Term Care Administration, though these are less commonly available through online programs.

    Candidates for nursing home administration positions must obtain state licensure. State guidelines for licensure vary, but generally, candidates need a healthcare administration bachelor's degree, completion of state-specific training, and a national exam. Some states also have their own licensing exams.

Featured Online Programs

Top 25 Best Online Bachelors in Healthcare Administration Programs


1
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $63,141
    • Out-of-State:$63,141
  • Net Price: $35,827
  • Acceptance Rate: 7%
  • Retention Rate: 97%
  • Graduation Rate: 91%
  • Total Enrollment: 30,013
  • Undergrad Students: 16,302
  • Graduate Students: 13,711
  • Grads Salary: $87,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Northeastern University
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2

Clarkson College

Score: 81.25

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,168
    • Out-of-State:$15,168
  • Net Price: $14,506
  • Acceptance Rate: 56%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Graduation Rate: 72%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,133
  • Undergrad Students: 631
  • Graduate Students: 502
  • Grads Salary: $88,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Clarkson College
3
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,506
    • Out-of-State:$8,506
  • Net Price: $10,191
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 100%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,602
  • Undergrad Students: 1,501
  • Graduate Students: 101
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Charter Oak State College
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4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,368
    • Out-of-State:$22,467
  • Net Price: $13,108
  • Acceptance Rate: 41%
  • Retention Rate: 93%
  • Graduation Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 68,346
  • Undergrad Students: 58,662
  • Graduate Students: 9,684
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 29:1
  • University of Central Florida
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5
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,565
    • Out-of-State:$18,963
  • Net Price: $9,881
  • Acceptance Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 69%
  • Total Enrollment: 55,609
  • Undergrad Students: 45,688
  • Graduate Students: 9,921
  • Grads Salary: $71,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • Florida International University
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6

Stanbridge University

Score: 74.78

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,710
    • Out-of-State:$36,710
  • Net Price: $21,416
  • Acceptance Rate: 10%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 62%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,259
  • Undergrad Students: 2,035
  • Graduate Students: 224
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • Stanbridge University
7

Regis University

Score: 74.61

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $43,980
    • Out-of-State:$43,980
  • Net Price: $26,377
  • Acceptance Rate: 76%
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,668
  • Undergrad Students: 2,398
  • Graduate Students: 2,270
  • Grads Salary: $89,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Regis University
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8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $12,896
    • Out-of-State:$33,751
  • Net Price: $16,926
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 86%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 33,403
  • Undergrad Students: 25,777
  • Graduate Students: 7,626
  • Grads Salary: $77,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Colorado State University-Fort Collins
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9

West Coast University-Orange County

Score: 73.23

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $22,685
    • Out-of-State:$22,685
  • Net Price: $27,933
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 100%
  • Graduation Rate: 73%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,475
  • Undergrad Students: 3,023
  • Graduate Students: 1,452
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 20:1
  • West Coast University-Orange County
10
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $8,400
    • Out-of-State:$8,400
  • Net Price: $11,172
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 90%
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Total Enrollment: 48,668
  • Undergrad Students: 39,206
  • Graduate Students: 9,462
  • Grads Salary: $79,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 24:1
  • American Public University System
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11

Marian University-Fond Du Lac

Score: 72.02

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $39,100
    • Out-of-State:$39,100
  • Net Price: $22,554
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,701
  • Undergrad Students: 2,633
  • Graduate Students: 1,068
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Marian University-Fond Du Lac
12
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $42,834
    • Out-of-State:$42,834
  • Net Price: $29,625
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 70%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,478
  • Undergrad Students: 990
  • Graduate Students: 488
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Saint Joseph's College of Maine
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13

Drexel University

Score: 71.58

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $60,663
    • Out-of-State:$60,663
  • Net Price: $39,267
  • Acceptance Rate: 80%
  • Retention Rate: 87%
  • Graduation Rate: 78%
  • Total Enrollment: 22,344
  • Undergrad Students: 14,021
  • Graduate Students: 8,323
  • Grads Salary: $84,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 9:1
  • Drexel University
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14

West Coast University-Dallas

Score: 71.22

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,715
    • Out-of-State:$16,715
  • Net Price: $21,560
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 67%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,468
  • Undergrad Students: 975
  • Graduate Students: 493
  • Grads Salary: $81,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • West Coast University-Dallas
15

Mercy College of Ohio

Score: 70.75

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $18,950
    • Out-of-State:$18,950
  • Net Price: $14,564
  • Acceptance Rate: 46%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 52%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,261
  • Undergrad Students: 1,120
  • Graduate Students: 141
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 5:1
  • Mercy College of Ohio
16
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,204
    • Out-of-State:$15,204
  • Net Price: $19,551
  • Acceptance Rate: 82%
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Graduation Rate: 36%
  • Total Enrollment: 13,979
  • Undergrad Students: 8,210
  • Graduate Students: 5,769
  • Grads Salary: $94,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Penn State World Campus
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17

Aspen University

Score: 70.47

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $6,264
    • Out-of-State:$6,264
  • Net Price: $13,781
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 50%
  • Graduation Rate: 47%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,386
  • Undergrad Students: 4,086
  • Graduate Students: 3,300
  • Grads Salary: $88,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 5:1
  • Aspen University
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18

Monroe College

Score: 70.37

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $17,922
    • Out-of-State:$17,922
  • Net Price: $9,157
  • Acceptance Rate: 60%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 56%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,011
  • Undergrad Students: 5,916
  • Graduate Students: 1,095
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Monroe College
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19
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $31,168
    • Out-of-State:$31,168
  • Net Price: $21,755
  • Acceptance Rate: 87%
  • Retention Rate: 78%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,603
  • Undergrad Students: 2,236
  • Graduate Students: 367
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Indiana Wesleyan University
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20
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,842
    • Out-of-State:$36,842
  • Net Price: $26,723
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 76%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,021
  • Undergrad Students: 1,737
  • Graduate Students: 284
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Elizabethtown College
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21

Trevecca Nazarene University

Score: 68.91

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $29,790
    • Out-of-State:$29,790
  • Net Price: $16,080
  • Acceptance Rate: 71%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,327
  • Undergrad Students: 1,867
  • Graduate Students: 1,460
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 22:1
  • Trevecca Nazarene University
22
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $10,130
    • Out-of-State:$20,820
  • Net Price: $10,806
  • Acceptance Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 49%
  • Total Enrollment: 14,324
  • Undergrad Students: 12,072
  • Graduate Students: 2,252
  • Grads Salary: $69,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Eastern Kentucky University
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23
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $25,000
    • Out-of-State:$25,000
  • Net Price: $17,776
  • Acceptance Rate: 69%
  • Retention Rate: 61%
  • Graduation Rate: 51%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,544
  • Undergrad Students: 3,071
  • Graduate Students: 2,473
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Concordia University-Saint Paul
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24

Husson University

Score: 68.03

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $22,194
    • Out-of-State:$22,194
  • Net Price: $19,978
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 60%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,065
  • Undergrad Students: 2,429
  • Graduate Students: 636
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Husson University
25
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,506
    • Out-of-State:$29,042
  • Net Price: $13,062
  • Acceptance Rate: 73%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 55%
  • Total Enrollment: 20,086
  • Undergrad Students: 17,438
  • Graduate Students: 2,648
  • Grads Salary: $68,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Middle Tennessee State University
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Associate vs. Bachelor's


In the field of healthcare administration or healthcare management, the certifications that one can earn require that you already have a healthcare administration degree or healthcare management degree. Graduates in healthcare administration with a bachelor's degree will earn more than a student with an associate degree in healthcare administration. In fact, most employers in this field typically require candidates to have a B.S. degree in order to apply. There are additional certifications graduates can obtain to gain an advantage over other candidates. Some of the certifications offered in the field for those with a bachelors of science in healthcare degree include:

  • Executive Certification (CRCE): This certification is completed via an examination that tests a candidate's business, healthcare, communication, and critical thinking skills.
  • Professional Certification: This certification deals more with the financial and billing issues in the industry.
  • Specialist Certification: This certification validates one's capacity to resolve accounts and deal with customer service and collections.
  • Certified Compliance Technician: This certification demonstrates mastery in compliance issues, such as HIPPA, regulatory sanctions, and abuse issues.

What Health Admin BS Degree Options are Available Online?


Regardless of the names listed below, the degree offered is basically an amalgamation between learning the business issues of finance, economics, accounting, and management with specific health care industry issues that include healthcare organization, finance, management, administration, policy, legal issues, and electronic healthcare records.

Students who simply complete a business degree with the hopes of employment as a healthcare administrator will find stiff competition from those who possess hybrid business/healthcare degrees:

  • Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration Degree
  • Bachelor of Science in Health Services Administration
  • Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management
  • Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Public Health

Once a healthcare administration program has been completed by a student, the student can then pursue an online healthcare administration graduate program or a business and management program, like an MBA in healthcare management. Achieving and completing both academic degree levels from an accredited college will increase the candidates opportunities for obtaining a position.

  • Master of Science in Health Care Administration
  • Master of Science in Health Services Administration
  • Master of Science in Healthcare Management
  • Master of Science in Health Sciences
  • Master of Science in Health Information Management
  • Master of Science in Public Health

Online Admission Requirements


There is a misconception that online programs have less strict requirements for admission. This is often untrue. In fact, online programs often have more or equally strict requirements.

Some requirements for admission to a Bachelor's in Healthcare Administration Degree include:

  • A 2.5 to 3.0 GPA
  • Letters of recommendation by teachers or employers
  • A letter of intent
  • Required SAT or ACT scores

Get Matched With Your Healthcare Administration School

How long does it take to earn a Healt Admin Degree Online?


How long your program will take mostly depends on how much time you can devote to your studies. Students who are able to attend school full-time will likely be able to complete their programs in around four years. Students who attend part-time will likely be able to complete their programs within 6-7 years. Students who have to work and attend school usually take longer than four years to complete their online health care bachelor's degree program. Some programs offer accelerated options, and these programs can be completed in around three years.

Potential Careers in Healthcare Administration with a Bachelor’s


  • Nursing Home Administrators:
    Nursing home administrators are charged with the management of staff, finances of the facility, building upkeep, and more. They must ensure that residents at the facility are provided with quality care and meet state licensing requirements.
    Average yearly income: $91,400
  • Clinical Managers:
    Clinical managers are responsible for the management of one department of a facility, such as the surgery, physical therapy, or nursing department. They manage budgets, staff, and department goals and procedures.
    Average yearly income: $71,400
  • Health Information Managers:
    Health information managers ensure the acquisition, maintenance, and security of patient records and facility data. They have to stay abreast of changes in laws and technology. They also manage employees who enter data into medical records. This is a key field in health care administration that is growing. According to the University of Villanova, it is a great idea for health administration candidates to get as much training as possible in this rapidly changing field because candidates with skills in electronic health records are going to find more doors open for them than candidates with other strengths in health care administration.
    Average yearly income: $59,200
  • Insurance Underwriter:
    Insurance underwriters are the personnel who decide if a certain procedure is funded by insurance or not. They must evaluate risk in order to determine coverage amounts and limits.
    Yearly average income: $57,300
  • Social Services Manager:
    A social services manager or community services manager works in a healthcare facility to provide social service support to patients that have unique challenges and problems.
    Yearly average income: $54,100

Options to Advance


Candidates who finish a graduate program are able to find more employment in the field than those with online bachelor's degrees alone because some facilities require their candidates to possess a graduate degree. Graduate degree programs in health administration tend to be two or three years in duration, even online options. There may be a supervised internship required as a part of a traditional or online graduate program.

Also, as discussed above, there are certificate programs available in the field for candidates who have their online bachelor's degree in healthcare administration that will also help them secure better employment in the field. Still others in the field advance by taking on more responsibility. Some healthcare administrators become executives within their organization. Top-level executives within the healthcare industry tend to have both an online bachelor's in healthcare and a graduate degree in health administration or healthcare management.

Frequently Asked Questions


Is a bachelor’s in health admin hard?

Some people think that earning a bachelor’s in this field is quite difficult. After all, you have to learn the principles of business and then also have to learn how to apply those principles to the healthcare field. Thus, these programs are more difficult than most business-focused programs. However, you won’t be adding too much to the existing business program, so it may be no more difficult than earning a minor while completing your major in school. Choosing healthcare administration instead of regular business administration will not require you to take any extra hard science courses and it will not increase your mathematics requirements, so it’s up to you to decide if the change is worth the extra work. Check out your school’s course catalog to see what extra classes you will need for this major.

Are there cons to being a healthcare administrator?

One of the things you should be aware of in this field is that healthcare facilities and services are well regulated in the US. If you choose to work in healthcare administration, then you will need to be aware of these regulations and work hard to ensure that your facility meets all of them. Learning about these regulations is the main addition to business courses that you will need to finish a degree in healthcare administration. Those working in this field are also likely to see long hours. While this is true for many business administration roles, it can be extra stressful when the health of patients depends on your work and staffing levels. This can make healthcare administration a very stressful field for those who work long hours within it.

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